Table of contents
Where the line actually sits
In Florida, a local move is typically under 50 miles within the same metropolitan area. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) regulates intrastate movers. An interstate move crosses a state line and is federally regulated by FMCSA. A long-haul intrastate move (e.g. Miami to Pensacola) is priced by weight and miles like an interstate move, but stays under FDACS jurisdiction.
Pricing models compared
| Factor | Local (under 50 mi) | Long-distance (FL or out-of-state) |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing basis | Hourly (crew + truck) | Weight × miles |
| Typical rate | $140 – $220 / hour | $0.55 – $0.95 / lb / 100 miles |
| Fuel | Usually bundled | Line-item surcharge |
| Minimum | 2–4 hours | 1,000 lbs |
| Delivery | Same day | 2–10 business days |
| Regulator | FDACS (Florida) | FMCSA (federal) |
Delivery windows — the biggest practical difference
On a local move, the truck leaves your old home and arrives at your new one the same afternoon. On a long-distance move, the carrier quotes a delivery spread: a multi-day window during which your shipment arrives. For a 500-mile move in Florida, plan on 2–5 business days. For a 2,000-mile move coast-to-coast, 7–14 days is normal.
Insurance and valuation changes
- Local moves in Florida are covered under the carrier's CMI (cargo liability) — typically $0.60/lb free, or full-value upgrade
- Interstate moves are subject to federal valuation: Released Value (free, $0.60/lb) or Full Value Protection (paid)
- For any move over 100 miles with electronics or art, upgrade to Full Value Protection — the math almost always works
Paperwork that changes
- Local — Florida bill of lading, hourly rate sheet, COI for buildings
- Long-distance (interstate) — federal bill of lading, binding/non-binding estimate, valuation election, "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" booklet
- Long-distance (Florida long-haul) — FDACS-compliant contract with weight ticket
How to decide which service to book
If you're moving within Miami-Dade, Broward, or Palm Beach and the total distance is under 50 miles, book a local move — hourly pricing saves money on small shipments. If you're leaving Fort Lauderdale for Atlanta, Charlotte, or Dallas, book a long-distance move with a binding-not-to-exceed estimate.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Miami to Tampa move local or long-distance?
Long-distance. The distance (280 miles) exceeds the local threshold in Florida, so it's priced on weight and miles rather than hourly. Delivery is typically next-day or 2 days.
Do hourly moves have a minimum?
Yes. Most Florida local movers charge a 2–4 hour minimum plus travel time. Very small moves (studio, 1–2 rooms) hit the minimum quickly.
Which is cheaper for a 2-bedroom apartment in Broward?
For under 50 miles, local hourly is almost always cheaper — a 2-bed typically takes 5–7 hours for a 3-person crew. Over 300 miles, long-distance weight-based pricing is usually lower than a multi-day hourly bill plus hotel.
Can I pay per hour for a long-distance move?
Not under federal tariff rules. Interstate carriers must price by weight and miles. Hourly rates apply only to local moves within a single state and metro area.
Sources & further reading
- FDACS — Florida mover registration and consumer protection ↗
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
- FMCSA Protect Your Move ↗
U.S. DOT
